A federal judge has suspended Florida’s execution of a statute banning social media use for minors under 14. U.S. District Judge Mark Walker remarked that the statute is probably unconstitutional but recognized worries regarding social media’s effect on young people. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis enacted the legislation in March 2024, which would limit social media access for individuals under 14 and necessitate parental approval for those aged 14 and 15. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat already require a minimum age of 13, while TikTok provides a restricted version for younger audiences, in line with federal data collection regulations for children below 13.

In issuing the preliminary injunction, the judge emphasized that the statute encumbers children’s rights to access speech. NetChoice, an internet trade organization, contested the legislation on grounds of free speech and identity verification issues. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier intends to appeal, contending that the law seeks to reduce social media’s possible dangers to minors. Uthmeier’s press secretary, Jae Williams, indicated that platforms do not possess a constitutional right to engage minors with their offerings and expressed disagreement with the judicial order, planning to pursue relief in the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. The matter remains unresolved despite the judge’s decision.